Memphis leaders speak ahead of vote on data center moratorium
The Memphis City Council is preparing to vote on a proposed one-year moratorium on new data center development while the city studies potential impacts and develops regulations. Amendments would require community meetings near data centers and studies of noise, water use and community benefits, while Mayor Paul Young has called for clear guidelines rather than prolonged uncertainty.
The Memphis City Council is set to vote on a proposed ordinance that would pause approval of new data centers for one year while the city evaluates their potential impacts. Lead sponsor Councilman J.B. Smiley Jr. said amendments would give residents and local organizations a greater voice, including requiring the Division of Planning and Development to begin community meetings within 45 days in areas such as Boxtown, Whitehaven and Westwood.
The amended proposal would also create dedicated study committees focused on noise and water concerns, as well as community benefits agreements. Mayor Paul Young said Memphis needs to move quickly toward clear data center guidelines and out of its current uncertainty, but questioned whether a full year-long pause is necessary. Sarah Houston, executive director of Protect Our Aquifer, argued that residents with firsthand experience should have a central role in the process. The city could continue accepting applications during the proposed moratorium but would not be able to approve or deny them.